In 2023 Leon was appointed as a Member (AM) of the Order of Australia as part of the 2023 King’s Birthday Honours for his significant contribution to the visual arts. A painter and master printmaker Leon has held more than 160 solo exhibitions, won national and international acclaim over a career spanning more than 55 years. 2023 saw Leon travel to Italy for an invitation solo exhibition and conference at the prestigious Accademia di Belle Arti Bologna where there is a deep history of traditional printmaking.
Showing in both the National and State Galleries of Australia, Leon attracted thousands to a colossal retrospective exhibition of more than 500 artworks in 2018. A mere selection of his archive, it highlighted his creativity and imagination which, combined with impressive technical skills, has cemented him as one of Australia’s most prominent and prolific artists. Although best known for his paintings, printmaking and mixed-media works, he moves smoothly between mediums including sculpture and design and from the figurative to the abstract.
Leon who spent his formative years in Meekatharra, has been largely inspired by his love for the Australian outback and his imaginary town of Widjimorphup. Sometimes narrative, often whimsical and frequently absurd, his rumination on society and our unique landscape have also made us more aware of the ideas that shape us as West Australians.
Leon's Margaret River studio has long been a haven to art appreciators, artists and students to learn about the creative process. His love of engaging community is evident in his gift of drawing people together for a greater creative good. As a annual participant in Margaret River Region Studios he has invited thousands to his unique bush block studio where visitors are treated to an overwhelming collection of works on exhibit, a magnificent property and sculpture garden to explore and a moment to have a chat and a cuppa too.